Officially, July means the end of pride month. But that doesn’t mean that supporting the LGBTQ+ community stops. Now is a better time than ever to be an ally.
Pride month is a great opportunity to celebrate who you are and show support for the LGBTQ+ community. However, once June is over, lots of companies make the mistake to stop showing their support so openly. If you, like so many of us, find it incredibly frustrating and what to continue upholding your ally status, there are so many ways for you to still do that.
Simply, ask how to be an LGBTQ+ ally
By asking others how they want to be seen, it shows your awareness and support for those who present differently than their biological sex.
Recently, such as Instagram have implemented the feature to include your pronouns on your page. But many include their pronouns on their bios across social media. There’s no pressure to share yours if you’re not ready, but recognising and using others pronouns is a respectful way to show you’re an ally. Lots of people were pins with their pronouns on as well, so their making their preferences obvious to others.
If it isn’t obvious, just ask. Unfortunately, so people seem to get offended at the question. But for those who it really matters to, it’ll really make the difference in them feeling pride in their identity.
Continuing Educating Yourself
Consuming media about the LGBTQ+ community is a great way to keep up-to-date on contemporary, or past issues. Everybody knows that its a community that’s underrepresented across media, so take it upon yourself to seek it out. Recently, Netflix’s Heartstopper took the world by storm – but there’s still so much out there.
Last year, Channel 4 commissioned It’s a Sin and, it was turned down by the BBC and ITV. The show was harrowing, but a crucial eductaion on the AIDS crisis of the 80s. Even though it came from esteemed writer Russell T Davies (Doctor Who, Years and Years), it wasn’t going to be picked up. This really proves that supporting LGBQ+ media, in all forms, is still as crucial as ever.
Volunteering At LGBTQ Focused Events
They’re everywhere is you’re looking for them. There’s no better way to show your support than giving up your free time to help out. It may be as simple as a queer book club, or as big as ushering at a pride event. The size of the event doesn’t matter – it’s your commitment.
Events takeplace nationally all year round, so just give it a quick google and you’re bound to find something near you. If these events don’t exist (perhaps you live somwhere a little close-minded) then create them! It’s even more crucial in places that aren’t as accepting that people feel they can be their true selves in a safe space, full of pride.
